Getting six distinctions doesn’t come easy – in fact, you have to put in the hard work to pass with flying colours.
Keletso Nthabiseng Ramalepe, a 2016 matriculant from Forte High School in Dobsonville, will forever smile since hard work did pay off.
The 18-year-old achieved six distinctions in the following subjects; mathematics, accounting, business studies, economics, history and Sepedi.
Ramalepe pointed out the people who supported her throughout the 2016 academic year; namely both her parents, sister, school teachers and many others.
“Matric was never easy because the only time I stopped to catch my breath was after the final examination.
“Monday to Sunday I was at school. I spent most of the time in school than at home. I understood, from day one on January, that Grade 12 would be extremely demanding,” she said.
She usually came back home at 5 pm – commenced studying at 7 pm till 1 pm. From 5 pm she’d get busy with her homework and assignments until 7 pm.
Ramalepe was full time at school during the week and on weekends at Kutlwanong Centre (both Saturday and Sunday).
“I was very dedicated all the time. Even at times when I encountered challenges with certain subjects, I did put in an extra effort.
“During the preliminary examination, English and business studies were two learning areas that were a bit of a challenge but most importantly I conquered at the end,” she said.
She plans to study Accounting Science with the Wits University.
To the class of 2017, Ramalepe’s message is: “Always put God first, attend lessons every day, respect your teachers and use previous question papers to revise.”
Karabo Frieda Sihlangu
It is usually relieving to finally relax and reflect on how long or tiring a journey was once you’ve reached the finish line. Karabo Frieda Sihlangu (17), a young girl from Bramfischerville, matriculated in 2016 from Forte High School.
Sihlangu said 2016 has been the longest, toughest and challenging year in her entire schooling experience.
Thanks to her school teachers and parents who played a massive role in her academics and ensuring that she stays on track.
“Being serious about school was a personal decision, I knew I had to devote myself in class if I’m to change the situation at home sometime in future or just let it be,” she said.
Hunger and often facing the reality of going to sleep without a full stomach, was something she had to come to terms with.
Coming from a family of nine people in a household, life was not a smooth sail for her.
She, however, was persistent enough to focus on school and to make everyone around her proud.
“I developed my own study method, a good way to revise and catch up on everything I learned on time.
“This meant I had to sacrifice all unnecessary things in my life to create enough time to myself. Besides working extra hard, I have a relationship with God and I believe that he always enlivens me,” she said.
Sihlangu achieved six distinctions in accounting, business studies, economics, history, and Sepedi and life orientation.
She acknowledges St Angel’s Catholic Church for their guidance, offering of spiritual support and sometimes financial aid.
Her message for the class of 2017: “Do not be pressured by anyone – just follow your heart. Do not let your family background determine your outcome. Strive for greatness and change your life.”
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